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Woodend Gets Arts Council Backing For ‘Own Art’ Scheme

Art lovers in Scarborough and the surrounding area will now find it easier to buy works of art at Woodend Creative Workspace thanks to an Arts Council backed initiative.

Woodend director Andrew Clay said:

"We're hugely excited to have been accepted for the Arts Council's 'Own Art' scheme. The scheme allows purchasers to buy works of art with an interest-free loan over 10 months, and will be a real boost for both our visitors and our tenants."

The Own Art scheme is now 11 years old, and in that time has facilitated the purchase of over £30m worth of art. "You have to apply to the Arts Council and go through a stringent vetting scheme," said Andrew. "There was a formal inspection of Woodend, as well as a mystery shopper, so to be accepted is a real boost for both Woodend and Scarborough's creative community."

Does this mean that Scarborough residents can now stock up on Picasso limited editions using the 'Own Art' scheme? "Sadly not," laughed Andrew. "Own Art is only for works by living artists and I have to say I'm wholly in favour of that. It's another step towards making the creative sector a viable career for people - and for widening the customer base for local artists."

Andrew was at pains to stress that the 'Own Art' scheme isn't solely limited to paintings. "For Woodend, this is one of the most exciting aspects aspects of 'Own Art'." he said. "The scheme covers painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewellery, prints and even unique items of furniture. That's a huge boost for our tenants, who will see their work become accessible to a much wider audience. We had a record number of visitors last year and I'm certain the scheme will allow more of them to buy work that's on show."

The 'Own Art' is now in operation at Woodend, with the Gallery open from 9am until 5pm through the week. The next major exhibition at Woodend, featuring contemporary craft from West Sweden, opens on February 3rd.